Armed Robberies on Campus

Three armed robberies have occurred on campus in the spring 2008 semester, so UTPD wants to help keep the community informed and educated about how to stay safe. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the below information about the recent crimes, and use the safety tips to protect yourself from becoming a victim of robbery.

What you should know about the robberies

The first robbery occurred April 3 at the Music Recital Hall, the second occurred April 16 at Robert Lee Moore Hall, and the third occurred April 21 at Taylor Hall.

Each robbery took place in the late afternoon or evening.

The suspect in each robbery is described as a male about 6 feet tall, medium to muscular build, wearing a mask and gloves, and brandishing a weapon.

In each instance, the suspect has demanded money.

All three armed robbery victims have been Asian students (male and female).

What you can do to prevent robbery

Do not study, work, or walk alone, because there’s safety in numbers.

If you must work or study alone, lock yourself into your room/office or sit facing the door.

Try to study in groups, or with other students or university staff near by.

If you must walk alone, stay in well lighted areas were there are other students around.

You can also avoid walking alone by using Sure Walk escort. Sure Walk escorts can be found at the entrances of the Perry-Castañeda Library (PCL), Flawn Academic Center (FAC), and Gregory Gymnasium (GRE). Sure Walk is a student volunteer group that operates 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday-Thursday.

When out and about at night, be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious individuals to UTPD at 512-471-4441.

Avoid taking unnecessary risks. If a situation or location makes you feel uncomfortable, go to the last place you felt safe.

Report any and all suspicious activity to UTPD at 512-471-4441.

If you know any information regarding these three robberies, please contact our Criminal Investigations Unit at 512-232-9640.